GARVEE
proposal expected to be introduced Monday (Feb.
28) A bonding proposal to
use anticipated future federal funds to expedite
highway construction projects is expected to be
introduced Monday (Feb. 28) in the Idaho Legislature.
Now in draft form, the proposal probably will be
introduced to the Senate state affairs committee.Continue

Director
presents budget to JFAC membersThe
transportation department budget for Fiscal Year
2006 will produce tangible benefits to Idahoans
and improvements to system statewide, explained
ITD Director Dave Ekern in a presentation to the
Legislature’s Joint Finance and Appropriations
Committee. Continue

CEC
committee, JFAC defer decision on compensation After querying state employees
during pre-session hearings, the Change in Employee
Compensation committee has considered a number of
proposals, but thus far has not taken action. The
committee met on Feb. 15 and considered options for
Fiscal Year 2006 salary compensation. Four motions
surfaced during the meeting, none of which passed.Continue

Forum
considers strategy for recreational airstripsITD
recently partnered with recreational air transportation
providers and users across the northwest to develop
a strategy for the future of Idaho’s recreational
airstrips. Gathering input for a strategic plan
was the focus of the Feb. 18 statewide Recreational
Airstrip Symposium in Boise.Continue

Research
function has been around a long timeResearch is not a new
concept to the Idaho Transportation Department.
It’s been fundamental to highway maintenance
and construction almost since Idaho’s highways
first received hard surfaces. A Feb. 18 Transporter
story incorrectly introduced Matt Moore’s
as the department’s first full-time Research
Manager. Indeed, his appointment significantly
expands the role research will play in all facets
of ITD operations (beyond highway maintenance
and construction) and will enhance the exchange
of current information.Continue

A
review of 'Ethics in Government'We,
the Principals of the Council for Excellence in Government,
each of whom has served in one or more responsible
government posts, believe that the time has come to
refocus the meaning of “ethics in government.”Continue